Where is Dubai?
Being honest, Dubai is a destination that totally divided us. Mrs Y wanted desperately to go, Mr Y was not fussed about it. Mr Y eventually backed down and agreed to go after Mrs Y’s cancer treatment, going to Dubai was a celebration for getting through all that treatment in one piece. We researched everything about this trip more than any other, taking a good six months of searching and planning. Making note of the expense of the flights to Dubai, out of the blue a reduced price appeared on the British Airways website, some £250 below any previous quotes. These were quickly booked and then we knew we were going for sure. Our hotel search criteria was simple… not a beach resort hotel and not a chain name, wanting to try and get some authentic Arabian atmosphere. Search after search revealed hotel rooms at crazy prices but we noticed one hotel that kept popping up, just off the top 10, but still very well rated on pretty much all review sites. The Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa seemed to be calling us so we decided to book it through their website. After booking we had no email confirmation so emailing our concerns to the hotel we had a very quick response confirming all was well with our booking. In our opinion it is well worth paying the extra to upgrade to the Executive Room as it will save money in the long run. Free airport pick-up and use of the well stocked executive lounge was well worth the £14 a night extra. Our BA flight arrived very late and knowing we had a free hotel transfer waiting for us was reassuring. Being whisked to the Arabian Courtyard and warmly welcomed by staff with a cool fruit juice while waiting to check-in was a delight and set the atmosphere for the whole of our stay. This is a hotel we have recommended to our friends and would return to at the drop of a tarbush !
PROS: Perfect location for the older traditional part of Dubai. Opposite Dubai Museum (across the road). Near Dubai creek. Walking distance to Textile Souks. Abra ride from Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Outdoor pool. Spa. Good on-site restaurants. VERY friendly staff. Clean. Nothing too much trouble. Calm Executive lounge.
CONS: No real negatives about the hotel to report. If you want the modern resort Dubai, this is not for you as it is a long way from the Malls and beaches. Public transport is a bit of a hike and in the Dubai heat is not good.
HOTEL Website: http://www.arabiancourtyard.com/
mrandmrsyoung 